Comparative Economic Advantage of Crop Production in Rwanda

The study evaluated the crop cultivation practices that currently prevail in Rwanda and recommends interventions to improve yields and reduce post-harvest losses. The recommended agricultural practices are expected to reduce the unit cost of production and increase farmers’ income. The study attempts to analyze comparative economic advantage of Rwandan crops as well as the financial profitability of these crops for farmers. The comparative economic advantage is assessed using the economic cost of inputs and economic value of outputs which is frequently different from market prices due to various distortions such as taxes and subsidies. The financial income from cultivation of crops is, in turn, estimated using market prices. The current agricultural policies toward achieving food self-sufficiency are evaluated. Acknowledgements The assistance of Trade specialist, Mrs. Gaudence Mukamurenzi. Agronomists; Mrs. Speciose Kantengwa, Mr. Didier Uhoraningoga, John Twiringiyimana, Jean Marie Vianney Hatangimana, Jean Marie Vianney Ndaberetse, Jean Bosco Tumusifu, Landouard Semukera and Dieudonné Twahirwa, during the completion of this report is greatly appreciated. A special thanks to the officials of the Rwanda's Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI), who provided overall guidance and support to the team. The team is incredibly grateful for the support given by the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Honorable Dr. Geraldine Mukeshimana and by the Director General of Strategic Planning and Programs Coordination (SPPC), Dr. Octave Semwaga.The team extends special thanks to the local authorities, public officials, farmers, their cooperatives as well as many other stakeholders, who generously gave their time to help the team to collect needed data and related information.